Category: Cycle-Ops Blogs

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A Basic step by step guide on how to degrease your drivetrain

How to degrease your drivetrain using some Muc-off degreaser

Materials Needed:

  • Muc-Off degreaser
  • Drivetrain Detailing Brush
  • Microfibre Cloth
  • Clean water

Steps:

  1. Rinse the drivetrain thoroughly with clean water1.
  2. Apply the Muc-Off degreaser to the chain. If you are using the aerosol can, you can cycle the cranks backwards to cover the whole chain with the cleaner1.
  3. Use the Drivetrain Detailing Brush to agitate any obvious grime. You can use the backwards pedalling method to quickly brush the whole chain1.
  4. Rinse the drivetrain thoroughly again with clean water. The cleaner and agitated grime should wash straight off1.
  5. Dry your chain by running it through a Microfibre Cloth1.
  6. Lubricate your chain. It is important to ensure your chain is protected from corrosion after cleaning1.

Pro Tip! Be careful when rinsing off your drivetrain that you don’t splash dirty grease onto your brake disks1.

This process will help remove dirt, grit, and other debris that might be prematurely causing your drivetrain to wear by grinding away at it1. It also degreases your chain, which means it removes all the old, dirty chain lube. This allows the fresh lube you apply to lubricate your chain better and saves you those precious watts1.

Remember, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using cleaning products. From all of us at Cycle-Ops Ltd Happy cycling! ?‍♂️

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A quick simple guide on how to change your inner tube.

This is a guide for a basic bicycle with V-brakes. The steps 3 to 8 are the same for bikes with other styles of brakes.

  1. Prepare Your Tools: You’ll need a new inner tube, tire levers, and a pump.
  2. Remove the Wheel: Release the V-brakes by pulling the brake cable out of the brake caliper. Then, loosen the wheel nuts with a wrench or quick-release lever to remove the wheel.
  3. Remove the Tire: Insert a tire lever under the bead of the tire and pry it up over the rim. Slide the lever around the rim to remove one side of the tire.
  4. Remove the Inner Tube: Reach inside the tire and pull out the inner tube. Remember to push the valve through the hole in the rim.
  5. Check the Tire: Inspect the inside of the tire and the rim to make sure there’s nothing sharp that could puncture your new inner tube.
  6. Insert the New Inner Tube: Inflate the new inner tube slightly so it holds its shape. Insert the valve through the hole in the rim, then tuck the rest of the tube into the tire.
  7. Replace the Tire: Starting at the valve, push the bead of the tire back inside the rim. Work your way around the tire, making sure the inner tube isn’t getting pinched.
  8. Inflate the Tire: Inflate the tire to the recommended pressure using your pump.
  9. Replace the Wheel: Put the wheel back on the bike, making sure it’s centered in the frame or fork. Tighten the wheel nuts or quick-release lever, and reconnect the V-brakes.

Remember, take your time and don’t force anything. If you’re having trouble, it’s always a good idea to take your bike to a professional. We are always happy to help you here at cycle-ops!

Happy cycling! ?

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Workshop Offer

We are pleased to offer you an exclusive workshop deal at Cycle-Ops in Tonbridge, your trusted local bike shop.

Take advantage of our special promotion and enjoy a 50% discount on all chains, regardless of the level of bike service required.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to enhance your cycling experience while saving money.

Visit us today and let our expert team take care of your bike needs.

Runs from 08/12 – 15/12